POP-UPS with PURPOSE:

As part of our fall initiative, Pop-Ups with Purpose, we’re planning a series of student-led experiential learning events focused on social impact and community engagement. These pop-ups will be planned, promoted, and executed by students in the Retailing and Consumer Science program at the University of Arizona. Each event will center around a brand or nonprofit partner, showcasing purpose-driven retail in action. 

This project serves multiple purposes:

• Hands-on learning: Students gain real-world experience in event planning, merchandising, marketing, and retail operations.
• Values in action: Students are drawn to brands that reflect their values. These events bring mission-driven commerce to life.
• Community + connection: Events foster engagement between students, alumni, brand partners, and the Tucson community.

How it works:

• Brands donate products to be featured in the pop-up.
• Students handle planning, marketing, merchandising, and operations.
• All proceeds go to the brand’s nonprofit partner, a cause of their choice, or are reinvested into student scholarships and lab development.

Get involved:

We're actively seeking purpose-driven brands and nonprofit partners interested in being featured this fall. This is an opportunity to: Showcase your mission to Gen Z consumers, engage with emerging retail talent, and support hands-on, impact-focused learning at the University of Arizona.

For questions or to express interest, contact: sheiladkressler@arizona.ed